I developed this magnetic toy carving to use up scraps of wood that are too small to use for canes, but too nice to throw away. It’s sure to get a person’s attention at a carving show or school demonstration.

The carving can be virtually any design, but I create a ball with a carved face to represent the man in the moon. Magnets keep the carved face spinning and casual observers guessing how it’s done.

I use 1/8″-thick by 7/8″-diameter rare earth magnets. I use four magnets in the carved face and eleven magnets in the base. If you use alternate-sized magnets, adjust the drilled holes accordingly.